After semifinal defeats—Vietnam falling 0-3 to China PR and South Korea losing 1-0 to Japan—these two sides meet in the bronze medal match of the U23 Asian Cup 2026 Third Place, Saudi Arabia.
Vietnam aim to cap a resilient AFC U-23 Asian Cup 2026 campaign with a medal, potentially repeating their 2018 heroics (runners-up), while South Korea seek to salvage pride after an inconsistent tournament.
The Taeguk Warriors, four-time champions (last in 2020), hold a historical edge but have shown vulnerabilities, offering Vietnam a chance for an upset in this consolation clash.
U23 Asian Cup 2026 Third Place Play-Off: Vietnam vs South Korea Date, Time, Team News, Team Players and How to Watch
- Match: U23 Asian Cup 2026 Third Place
- Date: January 23, 2026
- Venue: Prince Abdullah Al-Faisal Sports City Stadium, Jeddah, Saudi Arabia
- Kick-off: 18:00 local time (AST, 15:00 UTC) / 22:00 Vietnam time (ICT)
Path to the Third Place Play-Off
- Vietnam: Topped Group D ahead of UAE and Kyrgyzstan, then stunned Uzbekistan 2-1 in the quarterfinals before the semifinal loss. They’ve impressed with defensive solidity and quick counters, but struggled against China’s pressing. This is their second semifinal appearance.
- South Korea: Advanced as Group B winners, edging past Australia 1-0 in the quarters but faltered against Japan’s midfield dominance. Inconsistent form has plagued them, with just one clean sheet in four games.
Head-to-head (U23 level):
- 5 meetings; South Korea unbeaten (4 wins, 1 draw).
- Last clash: 1-1 friendly in June 2022.
- Vietnam have never beaten South Korea at this age group.
Team News
- Vietnam: No major injuries reported, but fatigue from extra time in the quarters could factor. Coach Kim Sang Sik may rotate to freshen up, with Dinh Bac and Khuat Van Khang key for transitions. Le Viktor is in doubt after a knock.
- South Korea: Midfielder Jang Dong-jin is suspended after a yellow card accumulation. Coach Hwang Sun-hong could recall Bae Hyun-seo for defensive stability. No new injuries, but motivation may be low following the semifinal disappointment.
Vietnam vs South Korea Starting XI
- Vietnam (4-4-2): Tran Trung Kien (GK); Nguyen Nhat Minh, Pham Ly Duc, Nguyen Hieu Minh, Pham Minh Phuc; Nguyen Phi Hoang, Nguyen Thai Son, Nguyen Xuan Bac, Khuat Van Khang; Nguyen Le Phat, Nguyen Dinh Bac.
- South Korea (4-3-3): Hong Sung-min (GK); Lee Hyeon-yong, Shin Min-Ha, Bae Hyun-seo, Kim Do-Hyun; Jang Si-young, Park Min-Jun, Kang Seong-jin; Cho Yong-hak, Baek Sang-hoon, Lee Geon-hee.
Prediction
South Korea’s experience and depth make them favorites, but Vietnam’s fighting spirit and South Korea’s shaky form (one win in last three) could lead to a close contest.
Expect tactical caution, with goals likely to come from set pieces or counterattacks. Motivation for bronze might favor Vietnam’s underdog energy.
- Predicted score: Vietnam 1-2 South Korea
South Korea to claim third place, building momentum for Olympic qualifiers.
How to Watch Vietnam vs South Korea AFC U23 Asian Cup 2026 Third Place
Stream live on the AFC Asian Cup YouTube channel (free in select regions), beIN Sports (MENA/Asia), or local broadcasters like VTV (Vietnam) and KBS (South Korea). Highlights available post-match on AFC platforms.
